Policies
Policy-Related Frequently Asked Questions
Click a question below to show the answer.
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How often can I schedule a one-on-one coaching session?
Visit one time or schedule a session once a week. You can work on class assignments, general writing skills, or even writing samples and cover letters. But be sure to sign up sooner rather than later—we often get really busy just before papers are due.
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Do I need to work with the same Writing Resource Center staff member?
Students are encouraged to get to know each member of the Writing Resource Center; however, once those relationships are developed, it is ideal for a student to work with the same staff member over time. There is a caveat to this advice—when the staff member of choice is unavailable, we may assign a student to another staff member for that specific appointment to ensure continuity of service.
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How do I have to prepare for a one-on-one coaching session?
Send your paper ahead of time. Ideally, you should upload your most recent draft at least 24 hours before your appointment; however, if you are unable to upload your paper within the ideal timeframe, it must be uploaded no less than 12 hours before your appointment to avoid cancellation. You provide the Center staff an appropriate amount of time to prepare and act professionally when you share your paper in advance. To avoid cancellation, consult the cancellation policy and procedures for more detail.
As you upload your paper, please identify two or three areas you would like to focus on during your appointment.
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Can I make a same day appointment?
Drop in appointments are welcome, but they are brief, lasting 15 minutes. At times of peak demand, priority will be given to degree candidates requesting assistance on officially scheduled coursework and papers. Appointments are not available to discuss papers that are due the same day.
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What can I expect during a one-on-one coaching session?
Bring a copy of your draft and be sure to take notes. One-on-one coaching sessions are designed to meet students’ individual needs, so you are encouraged to guide the conversation during the session. An approach that you can use would be to focus on the two or three areas that were identified when the paper was uploaded.
In addition, taking notes during the session accomplishes two goals. First, taking notes in your own words helps with understanding. Second, taking notes helps with retention.
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Will the Writing Resource Center help me with substantive legal questions?
Because Writing Resource Center staff is not grading your work, please address any substantive legal questions with your professor. We will talk about edits you can make to meet your professor’s expectations, but we will not edit your paper for you. The goal is for each student to learn how to become a better writer and that requires taking ownership of your work product.
Although we cannot help with substantive questions, please do not hesitate to ask any questions about the writing process, organizational structure, or other concepts generally related to writing.
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How do I cancel an appointment?
Let us know at least 24 hours ahead of time. Things come up and we understand. If you need to cancel, please follow the cancellation policy and procedures found above. If you fail to show up or cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment time, you may jeopardize your ability to schedule future appointments.